Culture and Exhibitions in Eindhoven

Eindhoven calls itself a city of technology, design and knowledge, and that is exactly what you see in its exhibitions. From modern art at the Van Abbemuseum to Dutch Design Week, light art during GLOW and the history of Philips and DAF: there is always something to see. On this page you will find exhibitions, talks, guided tours and other cultural events in Eindhoven.

The museums

The Van Abbemuseum is the city's art museum. It opened in 1936, founded by cigar manufacturer Henri van Abbe, and today holds more than 3,400 works, from El Lissitzky and Picasso to Marlene Dumas and contemporary artists from around the world. Its temporary exhibitions often take an unexpected angle on the museum itself.

The Philips Museum, in the former first light bulb factory of Philips, tells how a light bulb maker founded in 1891 grew into a global company and shaped the city. The DAF Museum shows the history of the Eindhoven truck and car maker with more than a hundred vehicles. Museumpark VONK in the Genneper Parken brings the Iron Age and the Middle Ages to life. You will find more details in our museums guide.

Design: Dutch Design Week

Every October, Dutch Design Week turns Eindhoven into the design capital of northern Europe for nine days. The work of thousands of designers is shown at more than a hundred locations, from the old Philips halls of the Klokgebouw at Strijp-S to galleries, studios and shop windows in the city centre. Many locations are free; for others you need a DDW ticket.

Light art: GLOW

In November, GLOW turns the city centre into a free walking route of light art. Artists from the Netherlands and abroad use buildings, squares and parks as their canvas, and the route attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. GLOW is a nod to the city's nickname, the City of Light, which comes from its Philips history.

Street art and public space

Eindhoven also has a lot of art in the street. Murals by local artists such as Studio Giftig, whose work has twice been named best mural in the world by Street Art Cities, can be found across the city, including on the facade of the Muziekgebouw Eindhoven.

Tips for visiting exhibitions

• Museumkaart. With the Dutch museum card you can visit the major museums in Eindhoven for free. It is worth it if you visit several museums a year.
• Free hours. The Van Abbemuseum is free for everyone on Tuesdays from 15:00 to 17:00, and always free for children under 13.
• Language. Exhibitions usually have texts in Dutch and English, and staff speak English.
• Opening days. Many museums are closed on Mondays. Check our museums guide before you go.

Organising an exhibition?

Running a gallery, studio or cultural organisation in Eindhoven? Add your exhibition or talk to the calendar for free; we check every submission and publish it in English. Looking for more? See our things to do and see in Eindhoven, or what is on this weekend.